Roundup: New Year, Same RudyJanuary 15, 2007While Geoplin Slovan might be the worst team in the Adriatic League, they can at least afford to let their talented youngsters play and gain invaluable experience against good competition at a very early stage in their career. At the beginning of the season, Gasper Vidmar was the least heralded Slovan prospect, but lately he has turned himself into their top post option, averaging 17 points and 7 rebounds, while playing just 22 minutes per game in the last three.

Vidmarís upside relies in his ability to score around the basket. Gasper is very skilled in the low post, possessing a variety of moves he can display, while he has excellent hands and soft touch around the hoop. Despite being able to produce by himself with his back to the basket, Vidmar also moves well without the ball. Heís particularly active on the offensive glass, grabbing 2.6 rebounds (3rd in the League) in just 17 minutes per game. Gasper has a "nose" for the ball, anticipates and puts himself in the right position. Vidmar seems to enjoy an above average basketball IQ and a good understanding of the game, but he needs to improve his passing ability. Up to date, he has committed 29 turnovers while dishing out just 4 assists.

From a physical point of view, Vidmar is average at best by NBA standards. He is 6-11 and has nice mobility and decent footwork in the paint, but lacks any kind of explosiveness and basically plays under the rim. This is obvious on the defensive end where he struggles cleaning the boards and altering shots. Gasper is a relatively poor presence in the paint, despite showing some toughness and willingness to take physical contact. Unlike the typical European big men, Gasper doesnít have too much of a perimeter game. He doesnít show any ability to put the ball on the floor and drive past his opponents, nor is he a good mid-range shooter. His mechanics look solid from the free-throw line and he is converting 74.5% of his attempts, so there is some potential for him to expand his offense outside of the paint. Gasper looks like a 2nd round talent at the moment; but he will need to show more versatility and improve his body in order to get drafted. [Read Full Article]